What's your feeling on the Schneider 47XL lens in terms of build quality and optical performance quality?
For background: I would like a very wide angle lens that will cover both 6x9 and 4x5. I am predominantly interested in 6x9 with ample movements. In general, I would normally be looking at the Grandagon 45 or 55 as these are in the ballpark focal length which will give me what I am seeking - which is approximately the equvalent of a 20mm lens in 35mm format with movements for architecture on the 6x9 format.
My impression is that the Rodenstock Grandagon wide angle lenses for 4x5 film have no reports of weird, unwanted things (specks, flecks, etc) inside the elements where there should be none -unlike the Schneiders XLs. From reading user reports on the web, my impression is the Grandagon wide angle lenses have better optical performance (resolution, less fall off) than their Schneider XL focal length counterparts as well.
However, I have read posts with at least two people who are very impressed particularly with their 47 XL's (and again, a few reports of people encountering weird things inside the elements as well).
My next lens will probably be either the Schneider 47XL or Rodenstock Apo Grandagon 55.
So my question is, Is the 47XL a standout amongst the Schneider XL line? Are there still/any quality control problems with this lens that you are aware either from experience or hearsay?
Thanks for any ideas.
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